M4A FORMAT
M4A Converters
Convert audio files to and from Apple's M4A/AAC format.
About M4A
M4A (MPEG-4 Audio) is Apple's container format for AAC-encoded audio, introduced with iTunes in 2001. AAC itself was standardized by MPEG in 1997 (MPEG-2) and enhanced in 1999 (MPEG-4), achieving compression ratios of 8:1 to 12:1. M4A has become synonymous with Apple's ecosystem—it's the default for iTunes purchases, Apple Music downloads, and iPhone voice memos. At equivalent bitrates, AAC delivers better quality than MP3, with 256 kbps M4A typically matching 320 kbps MP3.
Learn more: M4A on Wikipedia
M4A supports sample rates up to 96 kHz and up to 48 audio channels, including surround sound configurations. The main limitation is compatibility—while modern devices handle M4A well, older hardware and some software (particularly on Windows and Linux) may not support it natively. For universal playback, MP3 remains the safer choice. M4A excels for Apple-centric workflows: syncing to iPhone, organizing in iTunes/Music app, or archiving Apple Music downloads.
Quick Facts
- Extension
- .m4a
- Developed By
- MPEG / Apple
- Year Introduced
- 2001 (iTunes)
- Compression
- Lossy (AAC codec)
- Typical Bitrates
- 128-256 kbps
- Sample Rates
- Up to 96 kHz
- Channels
- Up to 48
- Player Support
- Apple, modern players
Convert from M4A (2 tools)
Convert to M4A (3 tools)
Answers at a Glance
Quick answers to common questions.
- Are my files secure?
- How long do you keep my files?
- What metadata do you keep?
- What happens after I drop a file?
- Why are conversions so fast?
- How do you measure performance?
- What are the exact limits for each plan?
- Can I process files in bulk?
- Why did my file fail to convert?
- Do you use my files to train AI?